REALMS photos on Flickr

This photo was taken at Choranche Cave. This was a fantastic experience. Walking and shooting in a very small group in this large cave. I attach the website for the most curious people: www.grottes-de-choranche.com/ChorancheUK/indexChorancheUK...

So colorful place !

#436 - Crystal Realms by Yvain Style

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Finian's Realm by R Bellls

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Bear's Paw (Cotyledon tomentosa) at home. by Elias Rovielo

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The universe of succulent plants is full of playful elements and figures that take us to realms other than the vegetable. This is the case of the succulent bear paw, the star of today's post, whose scientific name is Cotyledon tomentosa. Previously, I had already presented other plants that also look like a stuffed animal. Interestingly, in all cases, it is not necessary to use a lot of imagination to actually see these anatomical details in plants.

Abroad, the succulent bear paw receives the same nickname, bear's paw. Whenever we find a plant with the term tomentosa in its scientific name, such as Cotyledon tomentosa, we can be sure that it is a hairy plant. This is because the term is derived from the word tomentum, which in Latin means wool or fur.

Here in the gallery, I have already posted photographs of other examples of succulent plants that have their leaves covered with hair, such as Echeveria pulvinata, with smaller and more delicate hairs, capable of giving a velvety appearance to the plant.

Technically, the hairs that cover the leaves of the succulent bear paw, as well as the other examples mentioned above, are called trichomes. These structures are modifications of the plant tissue, whose objective is to reduce the loss of water through evaporation, in arid environments and under full sun, to which these succulents are adapted.

The species Cotyledon tomentosa is originally from the African continent, occurring more specifically in the region of South Africa.

Although the bear paw is often sold in small pots as young seedlings, it can grow to a larger, shrubby size when well cultivated. The species Cotyledon tomentosa usually presents between 30 and 70 cm in height, in its original habitat. Over time, its stems will branch out, giving the plant the appearance of a small shrub.

As if the photo format of its leaves were not enough, the succulent bear paw is even better with the reddish finish at the ends of these structures, which resemble painted nails. This color becomes more evident when the plant is grown in bright places. It is also under these growing conditions that the bear paw can flower, typically in spring, producing inflorescences bearing orange bell-shaped flowers, with the typical appearance of blooms presented by representatives of the genus Cotyledon. It is interesting to note that even the stems, flowers and flower buds of Cotyledon tomentosa have delicate trichomes on their surface. The plant is all hairy.

The bear paw is a very versatile succulent. It can be grown outdoors in full sun, making it perfect in desert-inspired rock gardens. In addition, this plant works well in pots, whether plastic or terracotta, as long as the frequency of watering is adjusted according to the material chosen.

Clay pots, for being more porous, allow the soil inside them to dry more quickly. On the other hand, the plastic pot tends to retain moisture for a longer time, so the watering should be more spaced when this material is used. The succulent bear paw is able to store a lot of water in its leaves, so watering doesn't have to be frequent. Regardless of the number of times a week, the important thing is that watering only takes place when the land is very dry. Excess water in the roots of Cotyledon tomentosa causes its decay, leading the plant to death in a short period of time.

Although it is difficult to resist the charms of this succulent treat, it should be noted that the bear paw is a toxic plant if it is inadvertently ingested by children or pets. As their appearance is harmless and cute, the risk of accidents is even greater. However, when cultivated in places beyond the reach of these curious little ones, the succulent bear paw makes a cute show. Whenever I see it, I want to squeeze its plump, furry leaves.

Realms by Petr Sýkora

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The universe is unconsistent, especially here on Earth. You may be in a dark cold realm somewhere, and just few meters away there's a warm positive realm. All is needed is a few steps further. Btw, I like both realms:-)

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Angelic realms by Camilla Berg Ask

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In the Realm by Violet Valentine

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Into the fantasy realm by Tullerusk Gartner

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